We are in the midst of sponsoring our first Brand New Conference hosted by Armin Vit and Bryony Gomez-Palacio of UnderConsideration LLC.  This two-day event on corporate and brand identity is jam packed with some of the most active and influential practitioners around the world. This conference is a direct extension of the popular blog Brand New. Not only is the content relevant and engaging, but the venue, Schermerhorn Symphony Center in downtown Nashville, is absolutely stunning.

Being in Nashville, where music is so incredibly important, Armin and Bryony had the unique task of “branding” the event. I was blown away by the extreme care they took into creating the name badges. Most conferences print a piece of paper and put it in a protective sleeve and connect it to a lanyard. Not UnderConsideration! Over 1000 badges were printed 4 up on RECORDS! Yes, you read that correctly, vinyl records. They were then scored and broken by hand. This badge is definitely a keeper. There were so many other Nashville elements that went into the branding for the event including large wood type inspired by Hatch Show Print and paisley patterns and rhinestones inspired by tailors Nudie and Manuel. Visit their brand identity page to learn more about the thought behind every element showcased at the event.

The conference programs were printed and then rhinestones were hand applied to the cover. There are 6 versions of the program – all different colors with a different letter from BNCONF prominently displayed on the front. I happened to get a Pink “O” and I loved the way that the rhinestones were applied with such care, yet each book was different.

One of our printer partners, Classic Color in Chicago was also a sponsor of the event and it was great to see them showcasing all of the great print that they are capable of - from promotions for Domtar and Sappi to brochures for high-end car companies and universities. Their slogan is “where print becomes art” and they truly have some artistic pieces.

Volume 3 of Blueline Magazine (printed by Classic Color) features Armin and Bryony and we are so inspired by their passion, expertise and creativity. Be sure to register for your complimentary subscription!

Next year’s Brand New Conference will be held in Tribeca in New York. If you are in marketing, branding or design, this is definitely an event that you don’t want to miss. Follow @BNCONF on Twitter for updates.

Cheers from Nashville! (We are definitely going to check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and Hatch Show Print while we are here)